Anthony Barr expected to play in UCLA season opener

For the first time in nearly a week, UCLA linebacker Anthony Barr dressed in shoulder pads, cleats and a helmet for practice.

After suffering an undisclosed head injury during live drills last Tuesday, the Bruins’ All-American had been sidelined, appearing at practice only as an observer. Head coach Jim Mora did not talk in detail about Barr, but said he expects the star defender to play in Saturday’s 7 p.m. season opener against Nevada.

“He’s good to go,” Mora said.

The rest of what Mora called his first and last injury report of the season: freshman offensive lineman John Lopez and fullback Luke Gane will both miss the game with concussions.

Linebacker Aaron Porter and defensive Ian Taubler also remain out with concussions. Mora said a few weeks ago that Taubler, who had also suffered a concussion during last year’s camp, may be a redshirt candidate.

Freshman defensive back Johnny Johnson will have season-ending shoulder surgery today. He injured his shoulder early in fall camp, but likely would have been a contributor in the secondary based on his small work sample.

Goines easing back

Two weeks ago, Simon Goines limped off the Cal State San Bernardino practice field, his UCLA teammates standing in silence. The left tackle’s right leg had taken an awkward roll, and he placed little pressure on it as he was helped toward the locker room.

“Initially, I was pretty scared,” he said.

Further examination showed that it was a hyperextended right knee — good news for a young unit that needs as many experienced members as possible. The sophomore participated in Monday’s practice for the first time since the injury, and head coach Jim Mora expects him to be ready to play against Nevada.

Goines started 13 games at right tackle in 2012, but struggled all season He said his trouble now — a lingering bone bruise — isn’t related. Still, he’s relieved stress on his knees by losing weight: 330 pounds going into last season, he is now down to 317. His goal is around 315 or 310 pounds.

“I just feel a lot better, more in shape,” Goines said. “I can move better. ... I’m more light on my feet.”

He was confident in being able to return to full health soon, adding that he simply wants to work back slowly to avoid aggravating the injury.

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Having shifted to left tackle, Goines also had some interesting picks for his toughest competition in practice. In addition to senior defensive end Cassius Marsh, whom Goines called “one of the best rushers I’ve played against,” he pointed out true freshmen Kylie Fitts and Kenny Clark.

Scholarships earned

After recent transfers and other roster attrition, UCLA had a number of scholarships to give to walk-ons.

Four Bruins earned their keep for this upcoming season, including senior running back Malcolm Jones. Discontent with his playing time, the former Gatorade National Player of the Year had decided to transfer out after the 2012 season opener. He soon changed his mind, but had to earn back his full ride.

“The way he’s come back, with a great attitude,” Mora said of Jones, who recently lost an NCAA appeal for an extra season. “The way he’s worked and run. The way we think he’s going to fit in into our team. The way he humbled himself in front of his teammates and walked back on — I think everyone has a lot of respect for him.”

Running back Melvin Emesibe, wide receiver Logan Sweet and fullback Tre Hale also earned scholarships. The Bruins have one scholarship left, but Mora said the staff will take its time deciding who gets it.